2013 Xanadu Stevens Road Chardonnay

Winemaker's Notes

All of the fruit for this Chardonnay is from Block 2 of our Stevens Road Vineyard, which is situated on the Boodjidup Brook about 3km from the winery. Fruit from this mature, low yielding vineyard has consistently produced some of our best Chardonnay each vintage. The pedigree of the vineyard deserves recognition in its own right, so much so, that we have again decided release the best barrels as a ‘Single Vineyard’ wine.

Limited to only 160 dozen, the 2013 Stevens Road Chardonnay recognises the outstanding quality that this individual vineyard has the ability to produce, and highlights the unique personality of this special site.

expert reviews about

2013 Xanadu Stevens Road Chardonnay

Expert Reviews

James Halliday (2013 Vintage) says

From the Lagan Vineyard at Wilyabrup, Gingin clone, hand-picked, whole bunch-pressed, wild yeast fermented in French oak (35% new), lees-stirred during 9-month maturation, no mlf, a selection of the best barrels. This is the most complex of the '13 Xanadu Chardonnays, yet retains the hallmark precision and elegance of its siblings. 7 months after its first tasting, its power, intensity and extreme length have come into full focus, gaining another point.

Drink by 2025

98

Gary Walsh (2013 Vintage) says

Strike a match! Then slice some grapefruit, lay on the spice and throw in some oatmeal and vanilla for good measure. Tight and tangy, chalky flinty texture, but juicy and laden with sweet citrus and spice. Has a finish that’s very long, roughly textured and sizzling with citrus.

2015 - 2022

95

Gary Walsh (2014 Vintage) says

Sourced from the best rows of Block 2 on the Stevens Vineyard. 30% new oak. 250 dozen made. Flinty, lightly smoky, ripe grapefruit and unripe pineapple, cashew nuts and a touch of vanilla. Light to medium bodied, racy style, tight and juicy at once, dry and tangy lime-drizzled finish of excellent length. A little silk, but plenty of tweak and pinch. Modern Margaret done beautifully.

95

James Halliday (2014 Vintage) says

From 20 rows of Gingin clone on the Stevens Road Vineyard. This is a twin to the Reserve, having far more things in common than points of difference. This is slightly finer and more open, but you wouldn’t say that if it was any other wine in the comparison. The flavour spectrum and balance are nigh-on identical, and to force the issue, this wine is readier than the Reserve.